Saturday, 14 June 2014

Latest Jobs in Nigeria

Latest Jobs in Nigeria


Account Officer Job at Qlicks Concept

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 04:36 PM PDT

Job Title: Account Officer
Location: Ibadan, Nigeria
Employer: Qlicks Concept

Requirements/Specifications: – BSc/HND in any related field – Good IT knowledge – Excellent attention to details and time management – Strong communication and problem solving skills
.
Key Duties /Responsibilities:
Works with other units to coordinate and plan fund-raising, grants, marketing, communications, and outreach activities. Independently carries out a portfolio of responsibilities under the department’s purview, such as managing committees, securing approvals, and providing communications. – Provide advice to senior management. Works with management to create short and long-term business plans, including operational, organization and financial aspects. – Oversees legal, safety, fiscal, and other compliance requirements. – Oversees facilities, technology, and materials utilized in the department, coordinating with appropriate services. – Works with management and others to develop and implement operating policies and procedures. – Manages operating budget and performs analysis and reporting to support decision-making. – Manages the ongoing financial, operational, and staffing activities of the department. – Provide expert guidance and leadership to more junior staff. – Perform other related duties as required, e.g reviews of adequacy of departmental space requirements and technology requirements. – Implement and monitor support services, including procurement of supplies and services; transport, travel and traffic, communications, engineering and information technology support; and provision of local utilities and service requirements. – And others on management information and general administration issues and practices.



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

School Counsellor Job at Premier International School

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 02:52 PM PDT

Job Title: School Counsellor
Company: Premier International School
Location : Abuja, Nigeria
.
Premier International School is a Nursery Primary/Secondary School in an exclusive location in Abuja, custom-built with outstanding facilities and environment. The school is in the process of re-positioning itself to cater for both Nigerian and Expatriate pupils within the FCT.
.
Requirements: – Candidates should posses a minimum of B.Ed/B.Sc (Ed)/BA(Ed) in Guidance and Counseling – Must have at least 3 years experience as school counsellor and must be computer literate.



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Head Of Department - Mathematics Job at Premier International School

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 02:48 PM PDT

Job Title: Head of Department – Mathematics
Company: Premier International School
Location: Abuja, Nigeria
.
Premier International School is a Nursery Primary/Secondary School in an exclusive location in Abuja, custom-built with outstanding facilities and environment. The school is in the process of re-positioning itself to cater for both Nigerian and Expatriate pupils within the FCT.
.
Requirements: – Candidates should posses a minimum of B.Ed/B.Sc (Ed) OR B.SC/HND plus PGDE with a minimum of 7 years teaching/management experience in a reputable school and must be computer literate.



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

MS Chief Operating Officer Job at Ericsson Nigeria

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 02:41 PM PDT

Job Title: MS Chief Operating Officer
Company: Ericsson
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
.
Ericsson is a world-leading provider of telecommunications equipment & services to mobile & fixed network operators. Over 1,000 networks in more than 180 countries use Ericsson equipment, & more than 40 percent of the world’s mobile traffic passes through Ericsson networks. Using innovation to empower people, business & society, we are working towards the Networked Society, in which everything that can benefit from a connection will have one. At Ericsson, we apply our innovation to market-based solutions that empower people & society to help shape a more sustainable world.
.
We are truly a global company, working across borders in 175 countries, offering a diverse, performance-driven culture & an innovative & engaging environment where employees enhance their potential every day. Our employees live our vision, core values & guiding principles. They share a passion to win & a high responsiveness to customer needs that in turn makes us a desirable partner to our clients. To ensure professional growth, Ericsson offers a stimulating work experience, continuous learning & growth opportunities that allow you to acquire the knowledge & skills necessary to reach your career goals.
.
Job Description:
To secure the operational and financial performance of the in country MS contract, part of the global customer MS deal.To secure the alignment of the internal MS delivery organization to match the customer’s business requirements (as reflected on the SLA)
•To interact with the Head of Assurance responsible for running the RNOC to ensure our contractual commitments can be met
•The Operations Manager is accountable for the end to end managed services and contract fulfillment and profitability for a specific customer in a specific country.
•The Operations Manager is also responsible for:
•To manage the contracts execution (cost, time and quality) ensuring the fulfillment of all contractual obligations by Ericsson, the Customer and 3PP;
•To manage the operational relationship with the customer, securing to achieve a high level of satisfaction from the customer regarding the overall delivery performance
•To secure that hierarchical escalation on critical incidents (or other emergencies as specified on SLA) are followed and that the customer is always involved and updated according to contractual requirements
•To secure that all internal agreements (WLA) between the MSIP and other delivery organizations are signed and reflect the contractual requirements;
•(During Transition and Transformation) To act as the head of the customer in-sourced organization, securing at least the maintenance of operational performance and the fulfillment of specific contractual, strategic and business case requirements during these phases.
•Secure that service delivery units inputs and requirements on resource or service acceptance (according to Deployment & Integration processes) are being considered and fulfilled.
•Secure correct handling of Incident Management, Problem Management & Change Management
•Secure that the CS & SPMS contract are executed as per contractual agreement
.
Qualification:
Degree within Electrical Engineering/ Telecommunication Engineering/ComputerScience/Computer Engineering or alternate
.
COMPETENCIES:
Professional/Technical Competence:
•Highly developed management, leadership skills and experience;
•Customer orientation with excellent understanding of service providers / operators business requirements – be able to create true client value.
.
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
•A minimum of five years of experience as a manager in an operations/services technology environment, with previous experience in managing a network operations organization.
•Fluent in written and spoken English & French.
Additional language skills a plus.
•Highly developed skills in interpersonal communication
•Highly developed skills in driving change.



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

MSIP Operations Assurance Job at Ericsson Nigeria

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 02:33 PM PDT

Job Title: MSIP Operations Assurance
Company: Ericsson
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
.
Ericsson is a world-leading provider of telecommunications equipment & services to mobile & fixed network operators. Over 1,000 networks in more than 180 countries use Ericsson equipment, & more than 40 percent of the world’s mobile traffic passes through Ericsson networks. Using innovation to empower people, business & society, we are working towards the Networked Society, in which everything that can benefit from a connection will have one. At Ericsson, we apply our innovation to market-based solutions that empower people & society to help shape a more sustainable world.
.
We are truly a global company, working across borders in 175 countries, offering a diverse, performance-driven culture & an innovative & engaging environment where employees enhance their potential every day. Our employees live our vision, core values & guiding principles. They share a passion to win & a high responsiveness to customer needs that in turn makes us a desirable partner to our clients. To ensure professional growth, Ericsson offers a stimulating work experience, continuous learning & growth opportunities that allow you to acquire the knowledge & skills necessary to reach your career goals.
.
Job Responsibilities:
MSIP Operations Assurance is mainly responsible for securing that operations activities are performing according to the SLA requirements (as reflected on the WLA) and to provide a escalation point for all KPI / operations delivery performance deviations towards the customer.
.
As MSIP Operations Assurance, you have a Coordination Role, for the operational activities which actually performed by the Operations Organization on a global site.
.
Job Descriptions:
•All assurance, fulfilment and service desk activities to be performed under the contractual scope for the specific customer, acting as a demand organization.
•Based on the contractual SLA, establish the WLA between the operations delivery units and the MSIP and monitor the delivery performance according to MS governance model.
•Secure KPI fulfilment and coordinate performance reporting to the customer organization and Support MSIP Contract Management on penalties verification.
•Perform hierarchical escalation in case of critical (or optionally major) incidents and act as the main interface to the customer.
•Approve and monitor operational performance improvement plans.
•Secure that service delivery units inputs and requirements on resource or service acceptance (according to Deployment & Integration processes) are being considered and fulfilled.
•Coordinate the operational interface between operational delivery units and the customer’s retained organization (ex. Customer care center) required to fulfil the SLA, establishing OLA (Operational Level Agreements) whenever necessary.
•Ensure operational readiness – availability of operational resources and/or procedures for any new service or resource on the customer’s infrastructure.
.
Requirements: – Degree in Electrical Engineering/ Telecommunication Engineering/ Computer Science/Computer Engineering or equivalent. – Master Degree on the engineering area would be an advantage. – Have a minimum 7 years of experience in Operation and Maintenance of Telecom networks. – Have a good management background in the telecommunication industry preferably in the Operation or Support capacity.

COMPETENCIES:
Professional/Technical Competence:
•Having good product knowledge
•Having excellent knowledge in Project Management (PM certified desirable)
.
Business Competence:
•Exceptional knowledge and skills in Business Understanding
•Highly developed knowledge and skills in Financial understanding
•Exceptional English language and presentation skill
.
Human Competence:
•Highly Developed Leadership knowledge and skills, specifically to be Business Manager, Innovator, Competence Developer and Relationship builder
•Highly Developed Communication knowledge and skills, including presentation and influencing skills
•Highly Developed Customer management and skills, including relationship building.



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Office Support Manager Job at Nasara Consults

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 02:19 PM PDT

Job Title: Office Support Manager
Company: Nasara Consults
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
.
Nasara Consults is a major Dealer in IKEDC (PHCN) Recharge cards.
.
Job Description:
An Office Support manager Between the Ages of 22-30 years Residing around Ketu-Mile 12 axis, with a valid Driving License
.
Requirements: – Must be computer Literate, if possible ability to use the Tally Accounting software (But not a criteria of assessment – With a minimum of S.S.C.E Cert. Ond Holders “May” have an advantage. – 1-3 Years of Related Work experience – Ability to drive (with a valid driver’s license) is an added advantage.



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

R&D Assistant Manager - Nutrition and Health Management Job at Unilever Nigeria Plc

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 01:02 PM PDT

Job Title: R&D Assistant Manager N&H
Company: Unilever
Job Number: 14000BNU
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
.
A job at Unilever is a career made by you, with development opportunities, benefits and a working culture that embraces diversity. So whether you’re looking for an internship, graduate opportunities, or a job opening to progress your professional career, at Unilever you can shape your own path as you work with the brands and people that drive our sustainable business growth.
.
Description:
.
Unilever Nigeria is looking to hire an Expert in Nutrition & Health management
.
The employee contributes to growth by driving Nutrition & Health (N&H) for brands, categories and corporate. Based on local market insights manages N&H risks and opportunities wrt portfolio and claims and deploys centrally developed N&H communication packages / initiatives.
.
Main Accountabilities:
•Understand brand / category strategy and N&H environment (policies, consumers, markets, competitors, health influencers) and share these with GDC or RDC to identify nutrition and health opportunities (key cells).
•Contribute to the claims co-generation process by identifying risk / opportunities and sharing these in early stages with the GDC / RDC.
•Proactively manage associated risks of centrally agreed claims by creating a local support for our claims, preparing spokespeople to deal with external Qs and by monitoring issues and timely involving relevant stakeholders.
•Deploying centrally developed N&H communication approach and materials for both “health influencers” (experts, health care professionals, NGOs, GOs, media, social networks and customers) and consumers aimed at influencing local consumer behaviour to create demand for Unilever products in an effective way.
•Accountable for N&H soundness of related local communications for health influencers, media and consumers.
•Champion USLP Health & Wellbeing commitments by driving quality of nutritional data in our databases, monitoring portfolio status and identifying and flagging issues and opportunities.
•The above mentioned accountabilities apply also for local jewels, but country N&H manager is responsible for design and clearance of N&H claims and communication materials.
•Leverage expertise, best practice and learning across countries and brands via relevant networks (e.g. Unilever Nutrition Network)
.
Relevant Experience Required:
•3 years of relevant working experience in a relevant discipline such as R&D, Nutrition & health in FMCG, Public Health, Communication, Science.



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Client Relationship Officer Job at Jeman Consulting

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 12:01 PM PDT

Job Title: Client Relationship Officers
Company: Jeman Consulting
Location: Lagos
.
Role & Responsibilities: – Build client relationships, adopt an engagement model with clear cadence on communication within the client organization – Responsible for developing customer outreach strategy. Including development of marketing material such as C-Level presentations and technical sales presentations. – Conduct customer presentations on our services. (both technical & non-technical presentations). – Drive awareness of our services to the Microsoft Services sales field by partnering and collaborating with sales executives, account managers, engagement managers and other account team members. – Work with clients to understand their project challenges, training needs and formulate business problem. – Work with teams in solving these business problems by translating the them into an problem solving framework. – Present results to senior management through insightful recommendations. – Ensure service delivered is consumed and create tangible business impact. – Work closely with project team managers to ensure smooth delivery
.
Skills & Competencies: – Possess strong analytical/logical thinking skills and clarity of thought – Ability to learn complex businesses very quickly, define problems accurately while paying attention to detail in the solution. – Hands-on experience in Microsoft Office. – Ability to develop relationships with clients and project team built on trust and credibility. – Strong interpersonal and team management skills. – Exceptional written and oral communications skills – Excellent presentation and negotiation skills – Effective decision making/problem solving skills, using sound logical judgment – Energetic and positive attitude, highly motivated, recognized by others as a self starter – Development of strategic partnering relationships and related business development activities
.
Required Qualifications:
· 1 – 3 years hands-on client engagement/business development role
· Bachelor’s degree in engineering or science preferable
· PMP/PRINCE 2 Certification an added advantage



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Business Develpment Executive Job at A Lagos-Based Company

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 11:55 AM PDT

Job Title: Business Develpment Executive
Company: A Lagos-Based Company
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
.
Responsibilities: – Self-Generation of new Corporate Clients for the Company and managing the relationships. – Strong leadership, problem solving, and decision making abilities – Ability to interface with senior executives – Presentation and demonstration of relevant products and services to potential clients as part of the sales effort. – Consistent achievement of client acquisition targets as defined in line with overall company strategy. – Analysis of client requirements and formulation of suitable solution, features and specifications. – Comprehensive performance reporting on business development initiatives. including the preparation of customer call reports and weekly activity reports. – Plan approaches and pitches.
.
Qualifications:
• A bachelor’s degree
• 5+ years’ experience using formal sales capture processes
• Have a Strong strategic focus
• Be results-driven, innovative and committed to high standards of performance.
• Be highly adaptable, creative, and used to delivering results in a dynamic and fluid working environment.
• Be able to leverage their experience to rapidly assume a wide range of responsibilities and make decisive and tangible contributions to the Organisation.
• Applicants must be comfortable negotiating change, taking responsibility, and making complex strategic and operational decisions.
• Applicants must demonstrate integrity and high personal ethical standards;
• Be highly numerate, analytical and detailed focused; and be
• Be strongly committed to business development.



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Marketing Executive Job at A Leading Stock Firm

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 11:50 AM PDT

Job Title: Marketing Executive
Location: Lagos, Benin, Nigeria
Company: A Leading Stock Firm
Recruiter: SPNS Consulting Limited
.
Our client, a leading stocking firm is seeking to recruit intelligent and self driven men and women between the ages of 25 years and 30 years, as MARKETING EXECUTIVES for its Lagos and Benin Operations.
.
Job Descriptions:
• Providing investment advice and recommendations
• Monitoring domestic and foreign stock market performance
• Purchasing new share issues
• Interpreting financial reports
• Administering and evaluating clients’ investment holdings
• Persuade clients to buy or sell.
.
Requirements:
• Excellent computer application skills
• Ambitious
• Competitive attitude and determination.
.
Qualification and Experience: – Relevant certifications – Must have 4-5 years of relevant experience



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Stock Broker Job at A Leading Stock Firm

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 11:46 AM PDT

Job Title: Stock Broker
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Company: A Leading Stock Firm
Recruiter: SPNS Consulting Limited
.
Our client, a leading stocking firm is seeking to recruit intelligent and self driven men and women between the ages of 25 years and 30 years, as MARKETING EXECUTIVES for its Lagos and Benin Operations.
.
Requirements: – Interested candidate should posses minimum of BSc/HND with 2-3 years experience as a stockbroker. – Candidate must also posses CIS certification. – MSc will be an added advantage. – Successful candidates will undergo requisite training.



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Front Desk Officer Job at Terragon Limited

Posted: 13 Jun 2014 11:36 AM PDT

Job Title: Front Desk Officer
Company: Terragon
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
.
Terragon – An Integrated New Media and Mobile Content company based in Lagos, Nigeria with presence in Ghana, Kenya, India, UK and Mauritius currently seeks to employ a FRONT DESK OFFICER. The Group prides itself as a new media business focused on Africa. It has built a strong competence across the new media ecosystem comprising mobile, online and content.
.
Responsibilities: – Respond to visitor’s inquiries and direct to concerned staff. – Sort, and distribute incoming correspondence – Re-direct calls as appropriate and take adequate messages when required. – Greet, assist visitors and the general public. – Perform other related duties as required by Team Leads and Talent and office resource – Deliver excellent customer services, at all times. – Make sure reception area is kept clean and tidy throughout the day. – Report any maintenance issues immediately to line manager, including all furniture, fittings and equipment. – Provide administrative support to Admin Department
.
Qualifications: – A Bachelor’s degree in Arts/Social sciences; must have completed NYSC. – Minimum of 1 year experience of Managing front desk in a service environment, Call centre or service shop experience – Tech-savvy and comfortable in a field that combines elements of multiple disciplines (technology, marketing, etc.) – Good communication skills and Interpersonal skills. – Coordinated and Disciplined. – Attentive to details. – Excellent customer service relation.



Apply to this job

This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

SPORTS Former Dodgers owner testifies in baseball fan beating case

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt testified on Friday that safety was a top priority at the stadium and he denied responsibility for any gaps in security that lead to the brutal beating of a baseball fan on opening day in 2011.

Bryan Stow suffered a skull fracture and brain damage when he was attacked by two men in the parking lot of Dodger Stadium following a game against their arch-rivals, the San Francisco Giants. He is seeking $35 million from the team and its former owner.

Stow, a 45-year-old former paramedic who can no longer work and requires daily medical care, claims that poor security and inadequate, 30-year-old lighting in the stadium parking lot gave his assailants the opportunity to attack him.

McCourt sold the Dodgers to a group led by former basketball star Earvin "Magic" Johnson in 2012 during an acrimonious divorce. He told the court during more than an hour of testimony that fan safety had been a top priority during his stewardship.

But questioned about specifics of stadium security at the time of Stow's beating, McCourt repeatedly asserted that he was not directly involved with such matters, at one point telling the court that he did not know who was his vice president of security in March 2011.

McCourt also said that he was not involved in a decision to move away from having uniformed security at the stadium and could not recall if the parking lot lights had been upgraded during his tenure.

Asked by Stow's attorney if he were aware that there was a 35-minute delay in security personnel responding to the attack, McCourt said such a lapse would be excusable if the officers were busy with another incident but not if they were "taking a longer coffee break, not doing what they were supposed to be doing."

Stow's attackers, Louie Sanchez and Marvin Norwood, pleaded guilty in February to felony charges in connection with the beating, which left Stow in a medically induced coma for months and prompted calls to address violence tied to sports rivalries.

"Like all Dodger fans I was appalled at the criminal behavior of Sanchez and Norwood and make no mistake, they're the parties responsible for this tragic incident," McCourt told reporters outside court following his testimony. "My thoughts and my prayers continue to go out to Mr. Stow and his family."

(Reporting by Dana Feldman; Writing by Dan Whitcomb; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)

____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

BB PIN: 260158B5

SPORTS: Kings reclaim Stanley Cup in overtime thriller

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - The Los Angeles Kings reclaimed the Stanley Cup on Friday with a double overtime win over the New York Rangers that capped one of the most remarkable postseasons in National Hockey League history.

With both teams close to exhaustion, broken sticks scattered on the ice and fans at the Staples Center roaring themselves hoarse during a heart-pounding contest, the Kings sealed a 4-1 series victory with a 3-2 win in Game Five.

The winning goal came courtesy of defenseman Alec Martinez almost 15 minutes into the second overtime, triggering a wild celebration as Kings captain Dustin Brown raised the Stanley Cup above his head.

"We always had the confidence. We just had a bad start to the first series," said Kings defenseman Drew Doughty. "But we never gave up, we were fully confident that we were going to get to this point and I am so happy right now."

The Kings struck first in the opening period through Justin Williams, who won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the Most Valuable Player in the playoffs, but the Rangers got goals form Chris Kreider and Brian Boyle during a four-minute span late in the middle frame to move in front.

Marian Gaborik, who finished as the leading scorer in the playoffs with 14 goals, tied the game with 12 minutes left in regulation before the teams slugged it out in overtime.

GREAT GOALTENDING

New York goalie Henrik Lundqvist made 48 saves for the Rangers while Jonathan Quick turned away 28 shots for the Kings, who claimed their second title in three years.

"This team never quits," said Kings center Jeff Carter.

"People have been talking about it all playoffs but unless you are in that room you don't really realize what it's all about and it's pretty amazing."

While the 4-1 series outcome suggested the Kings romped to victory, three of their four wins were decided in overtime and they overcame incredible odds to make the final, playing the maximum seven games in all three series en route to the final.

In the first round, they roared back from 3-0 behind to beat the San Jose Sharks. In they next round, they came from 3-2 down to defeat the Anaheim Ducks.

Then, in the Western Conference Final, they won a Game Seven overtime thriller to see off the defending Stanley Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks.

"It wasn't easy by any means. The past two months have been the most physically exhausting I've been in my career," said Quick. "To overcome all the challenges and adversity ... our group is pretty special so it means a lot."

OVERTIME THRILLER

Williams gave the Kings a 1-0 lead when he backhanded a loose puck between the legs of Lundqvist after a scramble near the New York net six minutes after the opening faceoff.

New York got on the board late in the second period when Kreider scored a powerplay goal by sending a cross-ice pass from Ryan McDonagh into the back of the Kings net.

The Rangers, appearing in the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in two decades, briefly grabbed the lead with a short-handed goal from Boyle with 25 seconds to play in the second period when he sent a wrist shot into the top right corner of the net.

The Kings drew even on a powerplay less than eight minutes into the third period when Gaborik fired a wrist shot underneath Lundqvist's pads before both teams came inches from winning the game in the first overtime period.

McDonagh hit the post for the Rangers and Tyler Toffoli struck the crossbar for the Kings. Both teams hit the pipes again in the second overtime before Martinez found the back of the net and ignited the party in Tinseltown.

"I just saw there was a loose puck in my own end and I just tried to get it in our forwards' hands and Toffoli a great shot," explained Martinez.

"Fortunately the rebound came to me and I was able to put it in."

(Writing by Julian Linden; Editing by Frank Pingue)



____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

BB PIN: 260158B5

HOCKEY SPORTS: Rangers' Stanley Cup wait gets prolonged

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Two decades since winning their last Stanley Cup, the New York Rangers will have to wait at least one more season before bringing the Cup back to the Big Apple after falling to the Los Angeles Kings four games to one.



"You go into this hoping that you don't regret anything," said coach Alain Vigneault. "We put it out there. We gave our best shot, best effort. Three games here all went to OT. What can I say?"



"It's tough to go all the way to the end and not win," said right wing Martin St. Louis. "There's no doubt about it."



Swedish goalkeeper Henrik Lundqvist shone once again, stopping 48 shots on goal in just shy of 100 minutes of play but the last one, fired by Kings defenseman Alec Martinez, ended the game nearly 15 minutes into the second overtime.



"I feel like I've done everything I could to prepare to try to help the team," Lundqvist said. "It's not enough against this team."



The sublime goaltending ran out for the Rangers in overtime.



"This is the worst feeling you can have as a hockey player," said defenseman Marc Staal. "Haven't felt anything worse."



Three of the five games went to overtime, including the series clincher.



"It's pretty hard to lose that way, seeing them celebrate," center Derick Brassard said. "We had a great run, but at the end of the day, we wanted to win, and that's the hardest part."



Despite the quick series out, this was the furthest New York had advanced in the playoffs since 2012. Though it ended in heartbreak, Vigneault compiled a successful first season as the Rangers coach.



"Well, obviously everybody's very disappointed in the outcome," he said. "That being said, I think in a couple of days, you know, we're going to reflect.



"I mean, every inch on the ice was contested real hard. You know, both teams were battling at an unreal level. Tough loss."



(Reporting by Will Robinson; editing by Amlan Chakraborty)





____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

BB PIN: 260158B5

SPORTS NFL Hall of Fame coach Chuck Noll dies at 82

(Reuters) - Former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Chuck Noll, who helped transform the team into one of the league's dominant franchises and became the only NFL coach to win four Super Bowl titles, has died at the age of 82, the National Football League said on Friday.

Citing the Allegheny County Medical Examiner, media reported Noll died of natural causes at his home in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, in the presence of family members.

Noll, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993, coached the Steelers for 23 seasons from 1969 until 1991, guiding the franchise to Super Bowl wins in the 1974, 1975, 1978 and 1979 seasons. Overall, he built a 209-156-1 record in all games, including a 16-8-0 post-season record, which is one of the best in league history.

In his first year at the helm the Steelers finished 1-13. Three years later, the Steelers reached the AFC championship game and two years after that they won their first Super Bowl.

'TREMENDOUS TECHNICIAN'

"Through shrewd drafts and strong guidance, Noll helped team owner Art Rooney and the Steelers shed their 'lovable losers' image," according to a biography on the Pro Football Hall of Fame's website.

"He quickly established a building program with an emphasis on the annual college draft to realize the ultimate goal of an NFL championship."

This emphasis on the draft helped to build the fabled "Steel Curtain" defense and a powerful offense in the 1970s featuring defensive tackle "Mean Joe" Greene, quarterback Terry Bradshaw, and running back Franco Harris, among other Hall of Famers.

Noll graduated from the University of Dayton and went on to play seven seasons as a so-called messenger guard and a linebacker for the Cleveland Browns in the 1950s. He was an assistant coach for nine years before joining the Steelers.

Noll was a "tremendous technician in the individual fundamentals of football, which was something very important to him," Denver Broncos coach John Fox, who coached defensive backs under Noll for three seasons from 1989 through 1991, said in an interview published on the Steelers website in February.

"He was very calm, very technique and fundamental-oriented," Fox said. "He was not a screamer. He wasn't up or down. I think his biggest thing is that he was the same guy every day. He was not an ego guy like, 'Look what I'm doing.' He was a great mentor, I know that."

(Reporting by Julian Linden in New York and Eric M. Johnson in Seattle; Editing by Frank Pingue/Amlan Chakraborty)



____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

BB PIN: 260158B5

SPORTS: Kings flaunt flair in thrilling Stanley Cup finale

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - The Los Angeles Kings saved their ultimate climactic finish for the grand finale on Friday as they seized the Stanley Cup with the signature dramatic flair that characterized their latest championship run.

With the pressure mounting, their home fans buzzing, and the game clock ticking away, Alec Martinez slapped in the cup-clinching goal in double overtime in a 3-2 win that provided the perfect ending to a drama-filled Los Angeles post-season.

"The Kings make it interesting at all times," Los Angeles center Anze Kopitar told reporters in the afterglow of the Kings' longest game in franchise history.

"It's not just the playoffs, we've done it all throughout the season. It doesn't matter how, as long as you do it."

Kopitar is only partially right, as the Kings will be remembered for winning their second title in three years as well as how they accomplished it.

Los Angeles needed three Game Seven victories just to reach the championship series and once they did, they saved plenty of style points for the final.

The Kings' Game Five clinching win was their third overtime triumph of the series, and each time they came from behind to seize victory.

Los Angeles faced a 2-1 deficit in the third period on Friday before tying it on Marian Gaborik's goal.

The 32-year-old Gaborik was acquired by the Kings in a trade with Columbus back in March, and he turned out to be a steal, scoring 14 playoff goals to lead the NHL.

While his scoring presence boosted Los Angeles, the Kings' magic also seemed to rub off on him.

"When I got here I knew I'd get a crack at (a Stanley Cup)," said Gaborik, who was playing in his first ever Cup final.

"This is an unbelievable team with (a lot of) character."

Friday's overtime thriller was yet the latest example of it.

Los Angeles stared defeat in the face on several occasions in the extra session where both teams clanged shots off the post and each goaltender performed acrobatics.

New York's Henrik Lundqvist valiantly made 48 saves in defeat, though it was Jonathan Quick (28 saves) who came out on top.

Just as the Los Angeles Staples Center crowd was chanting "We want the Cup", the Kings fired a shot on goal that was cleaned up by Martinez.

It was fitting that a defenseman would earn the finishing blow as the Kings' defense was the unsung hero of their finishing act.

The unit held New York scoreless for the final 55:13 of the contest, preserving the night with hustle plays like Slava Voynov's deflection on New York forward Rick Nash's open shot midway through the second overtime.

"It could've went either way," said Los Angeles defenseman Drew Doughty. "We came up bigger in the end. It was a great series and a great game for NHL hockey."

The Kings have now become an unmistakable force in the NHL. No team has a repeated as Stanley Cup champions since the Detroit Red Wings in 1998, but the Kings have to be considered a team that could join that group.

Only a Western Conference final loss to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013 has halted Los Angeles' run over the last three years.

"To be able to (win two Stanley Cups) in a short time is awesome," Kopitar said. "It's great when you do it the first time, you never know when you're going to be able to come back and give yourself a chance."

The Kings' first Stanley Cup run, in 2012, was built on dominance - they finished 16-4 for the entire playoffs - but their latest was all about dramatic endings.

"We won three Game Sevens in a row, I think we deserve the Cup," said Doughty.

(Editing by Amlan Chakraborty)

____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

BB PIN: 260158B5

SPORTS NFL Hall of Fame coach Chuck Noll dies at 82

(Reuters) - Former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Chuck Noll, who helped transform the team into one of the league's dominant franchises and became the only NFL coach to win four Super Bowl titles, has died at the age of 82, the National Football League said on Friday.

Citing the Allegheny County Medical Examiner, media reported Noll died of natural causes at his home in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, in the presence of family members.

Noll, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993, coached the Steelers for 23 seasons from 1969 until 1991, guiding the franchise to Super Bowl wins in the 1974, 1975, 1978 and 1979 seasons. Overall, he built a 209-156-1 record in all games, including a 16-8-0 post-season record, which is one of the best in league history.

In his first year at the helm the Steelers finished 1-13. Three years later, the Steelers reached the AFC championship game and two years after that they won their first Super Bowl.

'TREMENDOUS TECHNICIAN'

"Through shrewd drafts and strong guidance, Noll helped team owner Art Rooney and the Steelers shed their 'lovable losers' image," according to a biography on the Pro Football Hall of Fame's website.

"He quickly established a building program with an emphasis on the annual college draft to realize the ultimate goal of an NFL championship."

This emphasis on the draft helped to build the fabled "Steel Curtain" defense and a powerful offense in the 1970s featuring defensive tackle "Mean Joe" Greene, quarterback Terry Bradshaw, and running back Franco Harris, among other Hall of Famers.

Noll graduated from the University of Dayton and went on to play seven seasons as a so-called messenger guard and a linebacker for the Cleveland Browns in the 1950s. He was an assistant coach for nine years before joining the Steelers.

Noll was a "tremendous technician in the individual fundamentals of football, which was something very important to him," Denver Broncos coach John Fox, who coached defensive backs under Noll for three seasons from 1989 through 1991, said in an interview published on the Steelers website in February.

"He was very calm, very technique and fundamental-oriented," Fox said. "He was not a screamer. He wasn't up or down. I think his biggest thing is that he was the same guy every day. He was not an ego guy like, 'Look what I'm doing.' He was a great mentor, I know that."

(Reporting by Julian Linden in New York and Eric M. Johnson in Seattle; Editing by Frank Pingue/Amlan Chakraborty)


____________________________________

From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews
BB PIN: 260158B5

SPORTS: Kings reclaim Stanley Cup in overtime thriller

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - The Los Angeles Kings reclaimed the Stanley Cup on Friday with a double overtime win over the New York Rangers that capped one of the most remarkable postseasons in National Hockey League history.

With both teams close to exhaustion, broken sticks scattered on the ice and fans at the Staples Center roaring themselves hoarse during a heart-pounding contest, the Kings sealed a 4-1 series victory with a 3-2 win in Game Five.

The winning goal came courtesy of defenseman Alec Martinez almost 15 minutes into the second overtime, triggering a wild celebration as Kings captain Dustin Brown raised the Stanley Cup above his head.

"We always had the confidence. We just had a bad start to the first series," said Kings defenseman Drew Doughty. "But we never gave up, we were fully confident that we were going to get to this point and I am so happy right now."

The Kings struck first in the opening period through Justin Williams, who won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the Most Valuable Player in the playoffs, but the Rangers got goals form Chris Kreider and Brian Boyle during a four-minute span late in the middle frame to move in front.

Marian Gaborik, who finished as the leading scorer in the playoffs with 14 goals, tied the game with 12 minutes left in regulation before the teams slugged it out in overtime.

GREAT GOALTENDING

New York goalie Henrik Lundqvist made 48 saves for the Rangers while Jonathan Quick turned away 28 shots for the Kings, who claimed their second title in three years.

"This team never quits," said Kings center Jeff Carter.

"People have been talking about it all playoffs but unless you are in that room you don't really realize what it's all about and it's pretty amazing."

While the 4-1 series outcome suggested the Kings romped to victory, three of their four wins were decided in overtime and they overcame incredible odds to make the final, playing the maximum seven games in all three series en route to the final.

In the first round, they roared back from 3-0 behind to beat the San Jose Sharks. In they next round, they came from 3-2 down to defeat the Anaheim Ducks.

Then, in the Western Conference Final, they won a Game Seven overtime thriller to see off the defending Stanley Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks.

"It wasn't easy by any means. The past two months have been the most physically exhausting I've been in my career," said Quick. "To overcome all the challenges and adversity ... our group is pretty special so it means a lot."

OVERTIME THRILLER

Williams gave the Kings a 1-0 lead when he backhanded a loose puck between the legs of Lundqvist after a scramble near the New York net six minutes after the opening faceoff.

New York got on the board late in the second period when Kreider scored a powerplay goal by sending a cross-ice pass from Ryan McDonagh into the back of the Kings net.

The Rangers, appearing in the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in two decades, briefly grabbed the lead with a short-handed goal from Boyle with 25 seconds to play in the second period when he sent a wrist shot into the top right corner of the net.

The Kings drew even on a powerplay less than eight minutes into the third period when Gaborik fired a wrist shot underneath Lundqvist's pads before both teams came inches from winning the game in the first overtime period.

McDonagh hit the post for the Rangers and Tyler Toffoli struck the crossbar for the Kings. Both teams hit the pipes again in the second overtime before Martinez found the back of the net and ignited the party in Tinseltown.

"I just saw there was a loose puck in my own end and I just tried to get it in our forwards' hands and Toffoli a great shot," explained Martinez.

"Fortunately the rebound came to me and I was able to put it in."

(Writing by Julian Linden; Editing by Frank Pingue)


____________________________________

From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews
BB PIN: 260158B5

HOCKEY SPORTS: Rangers' Stanley Cup wait gets prolonged

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Two decades since winning their last Stanley Cup, the New York Rangers will have to wait at least one more season before bringing the Cup back to the Big Apple after falling to the Los Angeles Kings four games to one.

"You go into this hoping that you don't regret anything," said coach Alain Vigneault. "We put it out there. We gave our best shot, best effort. Three games here all went to OT. What can I say?"

"It's tough to go all the way to the end and not win," said right wing Martin St. Louis. "There's no doubt about it."

Swedish goalkeeper Henrik Lundqvist shone once again, stopping 48 shots on goal in just shy of 100 minutes of play but the last one, fired by Kings defenseman Alec Martinez, ended the game nearly 15 minutes into the second overtime.

"I feel like I've done everything I could to prepare to try to help the team," Lundqvist said. "It's not enough against this team."

The sublime goaltending ran out for the Rangers in overtime.

"This is the worst feeling you can have as a hockey player," said defenseman Marc Staal. "Haven't felt anything worse."

Three of the five games went to overtime, including the series clincher.

"It's pretty hard to lose that way, seeing them celebrate," center Derick Brassard said. "We had a great run, but at the end of the day, we wanted to win, and that's the hardest part."

Despite the quick series out, this was the furthest New York had advanced in the playoffs since 2012. Though it ended in heartbreak, Vigneault compiled a successful first season as the Rangers coach.

"Well, obviously everybody's very disappointed in the outcome," he said. "That being said, I think in a couple of days, you know, we're going to reflect.

"I mean, every inch on the ice was contested real hard. You know, both teams were battling at an unreal level. Tough loss."

(Reporting by Will Robinson; editing by Amlan Chakraborty)


____________________________________

From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews
BB PIN: 260158B5

SPORTS: Kings flaunt flair in thrilling Stanley Cup finale

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - The Los Angeles Kings saved their ultimate climactic finish for the grand finale on Friday as they seized the Stanley Cup with the signature dramatic flair that characterized their latest championship run.

With the pressure mounting, their home fans buzzing, and the game clock ticking away, Alec Martinez slapped in the cup-clinching goal in double overtime in a 3-2 win that provided the perfect ending to a drama-filled Los Angeles post-season.

"The Kings make it interesting at all times," Los Angeles center Anze Kopitar told reporters in the afterglow of the Kings' longest game in franchise history.

"It's not just the playoffs, we've done it all throughout the season. It doesn't matter how, as long as you do it."

Kopitar is only partially right, as the Kings will be remembered for winning their second title in three years as well as how they accomplished it.

Los Angeles needed three Game Seven victories just to reach the championship series and once they did, they saved plenty of style points for the final.

The Kings' Game Five clinching win was their third overtime triumph of the series, and each time they came from behind to seize victory.

Los Angeles faced a 2-1 deficit in the third period on Friday before tying it on Marian Gaborik's goal.

The 32-year-old Gaborik was acquired by the Kings in a trade with Columbus back in March, and he turned out to be a steal, scoring 14 playoff goals to lead the NHL.

While his scoring presence boosted Los Angeles, the Kings' magic also seemed to rub off on him.

"When I got here I knew I'd get a crack at (a Stanley Cup)," said Gaborik, who was playing in his first ever Cup final.

"This is an unbelievable team with (a lot of) character."

Friday's overtime thriller was yet the latest example of it.

Los Angeles stared defeat in the face on several occasions in the extra session where both teams clanged shots off the post and each goaltender performed acrobatics.

New York's Henrik Lundqvist valiantly made 48 saves in defeat, though it was Jonathan Quick (28 saves) who came out on top.

Just as the Los Angeles Staples Center crowd was chanting "We want the Cup", the Kings fired a shot on goal that was cleaned up by Martinez.

It was fitting that a defenseman would earn the finishing blow as the Kings' defense was the unsung hero of their finishing act.

The unit held New York scoreless for the final 55:13 of the contest, preserving the night with hustle plays like Slava Voynov's deflection on New York forward Rick Nash's open shot midway through the second overtime.

"It could've went either way," said Los Angeles defenseman Drew Doughty. "We came up bigger in the end. It was a great series and a great game for NHL hockey."

The Kings have now become an unmistakable force in the NHL. No team has a repeated as Stanley Cup champions since the Detroit Red Wings in 1998, but the Kings have to be considered a team that could join that group.

Only a Western Conference final loss to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013 has halted Los Angeles' run over the last three years.

"To be able to (win two Stanley Cups) in a short time is awesome," Kopitar said. "It's great when you do it the first time, you never know when you're going to be able to come back and give yourself a chance."

The Kings' first Stanley Cup run, in 2012, was built on dominance - they finished 16-4 for the entire playoffs - but their latest was all about dramatic endings.

"We won three Game Sevens in a row, I think we deserve the Cup," said Doughty.

(Editing by Amlan Chakraborty)
____________________________________

From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews
BB PIN: 260158B5

SPORTS Former Dodgers owner testifies in baseball fan beating case

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt testified on Friday that safety was a top priority at the stadium and he denied responsibility for any gaps in security that lead to the brutal beating of a baseball fan on opening day in 2011.

Bryan Stow suffered a skull fracture and brain damage when he was attacked by two men in the parking lot of Dodger Stadium following a game against their arch-rivals, the San Francisco Giants. He is seeking $35 million from the team and its former owner.

Stow, a 45-year-old former paramedic who can no longer work and requires daily medical care, claims that poor security and inadequate, 30-year-old lighting in the stadium parking lot gave his assailants the opportunity to attack him.

McCourt sold the Dodgers to a group led by former basketball star Earvin "Magic" Johnson in 2012 during an acrimonious divorce. He told the court during more than an hour of testimony that fan safety had been a top priority during his stewardship.

But questioned about specifics of stadium security at the time of Stow's beating, McCourt repeatedly asserted that he was not directly involved with such matters, at one point telling the court that he did not know who was his vice president of security in March 2011.

McCourt also said that he was not involved in a decision to move away from having uniformed security at the stadium and could not recall if the parking lot lights had been upgraded during his tenure.

Asked by Stow's attorney if he were aware that there was a 35-minute delay in security personnel responding to the attack, McCourt said such a lapse would be excusable if the officers were busy with another incident but not if they were "taking a longer coffee break, not doing what they were supposed to be doing."

Stow's attackers, Louie Sanchez and Marvin Norwood, pleaded guilty in February to felony charges in connection with the beating, which left Stow in a medically induced coma for months and prompted calls to address violence tied to sports rivalries.

"Like all Dodger fans I was appalled at the criminal behavior of Sanchez and Norwood and make no mistake, they're the parties responsible for this tragic incident," McCourt told reporters outside court following his testimony. "My thoughts and my prayers continue to go out to Mr. Stow and his family."

(Reporting by Dana Feldman; Writing by Dan Whitcomb; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
____________________________________

From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews
BB PIN: 260158B5

ENTERTAINMENT: Beckham muses on soccer and celebrity status in new Brazil

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - As the World Cup kicks off in Brazil on Thursday, David Beckham is trying not to miss his glory days of playing for the England team and now enjoys just being a soccer fan.

"The thing I miss most is playing for England," Beckham told Reuters ahead of Friday's premiere of a Showtime documentary, "David Beckham Into the Unknown," that follows the footballer on a journey of self-discovery in the Brazilian rainforest.

"Playing for England, representing England, for me was obviously was my dream," he said.

Retiring from professional football in 2013 after 22 years on the field, the 39-year-old British celebrity athlete decided to travel with three friends on motorcycles across Brazil, traversing the Amazon to meet an indigenous Brazilian tribe and mulling over his life post-retirement.

"I think people will expect if I was making a documentary, that it would be solely about football," he said. "What we wanted to do is do something different, and also introduce people to Brazil who didn't know the parts of Brazil where we were going to, in the way that we did."

Born and raised in East London, Beckham quickly became a star soccer player at Manchester United and on England's national team, cementing a glittering career on the field with stints at Real Madrid and the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Off the field, he and his singer-turned-fashion designer wife Victoria have become one of the world's most recognizable celebrity couples, building a franchise with advertising deals and endorsements.

In the documentary produced by CBS Corp's Showtime, the footballer mused on his retirement as he travels from Manaus to the Brazilian rainforest, camping out in hammocks and sleeping in shanty farm houses.

"Out of my comfort zone would be not showering for six or seven days," he said with a laugh.

Throughout the 90-minute film, Beckham often contemplates his celebrity status, wondering if he'll be recognized in remote areas they are traveling through.

"I bought it up so much because it hardly ever happened, and I think that's what surprised me about traveling to those places," he said. "I didn't think that I would be known once we got deep into the Amazon and the tribe, and obviously I was right because I wasn't and that was refreshing."

Family crops up regularly throughout the trip for Beckham, who has been married for 15 years and is a father to four young children. In the film, he reflects on the "selfish" choices he made during his career that took him away from his family, such as playing on loan for AC Milan while he was with LA Galaxy, and whether he might come out of retirement.

"Any athlete that has ... played the game at the highest level for so many years, once you stop, there's always going to be a few moments where you feel you can come back," he said.

But the footballer said he's happy to be on the sidelines now, with most of his efforts currently going into establishing a soccer club in Miami, and being a dad.

And as for England's chances in the upcoming World Cup, Beckham thinks the team is facing a strong challenge in its first game with Italy on Saturday, but one that they can handle.

"Italy is an experienced team and talented team, so it's going to be a hard game and obviously any first game in a world cup is difficult but we've got a lot of young players," he said.

"The advantage of young players, they're not scared, so they will be going in and they'll be playing with the freedom that they should be playing with ... I think having young legs in there and having talented young kids that have played in the premiership is an exciting prospect."

(Reporting by Piya Sinha-Roy; Editing by Patricia Reaney and Lisa Shumaker)



____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

BB PIN: 260158B5

ENTERTAINMENT: Comic Tracy Morgan, injured in crash, is improving, publicist says

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Comedian Tracy Morgan, badly injured in a weekend highway crash, is showing signs of improvement in a New Jersey hospital where he remains in critical condition, his publicist said on Thursday.



The pileup on the New Jersey Turnpike early on Saturday killed comedian James "Jimmy Mack" McNair and injured Morgan and three others in their limousine van.



Morgan, 45, best known for roles on "30 Rock" and "Saturday Night Live," suffered injuries including a broken leg, nose and ribs and was hospitalized at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, New Jersey.



"Today was a better day. While Tracy remains in critical, but stable, condition, he continues to show signs of improvement," publicist Lewis Kay said in a statement.



"His medical team remains optimistic that his recovery is progressing," Kay said.



Morgan's fiance, Megan Wollover, is with him, Kay said.



A Georgia truck driver pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to charges of vehicular manslaughter and assault by auto in connection with the six-vehicle chain-reaction crash.



Kevin Roper, 35, a delivery driver for Wal-Mart Stores Inc, is accused of failing to see traffic slowing in front of him and slamming into the back of the limo van carrying Morgan and several of his associates.



Roper had not slept in more than 24 hours when he triggered the fatal crash, according to prosecutors.



Wal-Mart has promised to cooperate in the state and federal investigation into the crash and said its drivers were among the safest on the road.



Roper remains free on $50,000 bail.



(Editing by Peter Cooney)





____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

BB PIN: 260158B5

ENTERTAINMENT Stage, screen actress Ruby Dee dies at 91: family

(Reuters) - Legendary stage and screen actress Ruby Dee, who won acclaim in theater, film and television and became a notable figure in the U.S. civil rights movement, died peacefully at home, a friend of the family said on Thursday.

The actress, who was 91 years old, died on Wednesday night in New Rochelle, New York, surrounded by her family.

"She died of natural causes," said Arminda Thomas, who works for Dee's family. "She was blessed with old age."

The petite actress won an Oscar nomination in 2008 for her role in "American Gangster." After being nominated for six Emmys, she nabbed the award in 1991 for her role in the TV movie "Decoration Day."

Dee was married to actor Ossie Davis for 56 years until his death in 2005. The couple, who had three children, formed a productive and enduring artistic and activist partnership. They performed together in plays and films and appeared together at some of the seminal events of the turbulent civil rights era.

The actress broke free from the racially stereotypical roles often given to black actresses when she began her career in the 1940s and continued to act into her 90s.

"Ruby Dee inspired so many people both on stage and off. At the Tony Awards last Sunday, both Audra McDonald and Kenny Leon paid tribute to Ruby Dee during their acceptance speeches," said Charlotte St. Martin, executive director of the Broadway League, which represents producers and theater owners.

Broadway theaters will dim their marquees on Friday in Dee's memory.

President Barack Obama recalled Dee's performance in the 1989 Spike Lee film, "Do the Right Thing" - which the president and his wife, Michelle, saw on their first date.

"Through her remarkable performances, Ruby paved the way for generations of black actors and actresses, and inspired African-American women across our country," Obama said in a statement.

Friends and fans also turned to Twitter to express their sadness.

"Words cannot express how much Ruby Dee inspired me to be who I am today. I will miss her dearly ...," hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons tweeted.

Director Spike Lee said he was "crushed" and actress Angela Lansbury described Dee's death as "an irreplaceable loss."

Dee and Davis were equally famous for their political activism, even as they paid a price in terms of their careers. They denounced Senator Joseph McCarthy's anti-Communist crusades of the 1950s and were blacklisted for a time. They also were investigated by FBI chief J. Edgar Hoover's agents. They counted civil rights leader Martin Luther King and black activist Malcolm X among their friends and took part in marches for racial equality in the South. Dee and Davis were emcees of the landmark 1963 March on Washington where King gave his "I Have a Dream" speech. The couple were honored in 2004 at the Kennedy Center in Washington for their lifetime contributions to theater, TV and movies, as well as their advocacy for equality. The Kennedy Center recognized them as "two of the most prolific and fearless artists in American culture," stating: "With courage and tenacity they have thrown open many a door previously shut tight to African American artists and planted the seed for the flowering of America's multicultural humanity."

Dee was born as Ruby Ann Wallace in Cleveland, the daughter of a train porter and a schoolteacher, and was raised in the Harlem section of New York City.

She attended Hunter College in New York, then joined the American Negro Theater in 1941 before making her way to Broadway.

In 1946, she appeared on Broadway with Davis, who also became a director and playwright, in "Jeb," about a black soldier back from World War Two who confronts the white supremacist Ku Klux Klan.

Dee's films include "The Jackie Robinson Story" (1950) in which she co-starred with Robinson, portraying himself in the tale of major league baseball's first black player, as well as "A Raisin in the Sun" (1961) with Sidney Poitier.

(Changes to their from his first date in paragraph 9)

(Additional reporting by Patricia Reaney and Edith Honan; Editing by Eric Walsh)



____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

BB PIN: 260158B5

ENTERTAINMENT Britain makes Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie an honorary dame

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain has made the Oscar-winning Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie an honorary dame for services to UK foreign policy and her campaigning to end sexual violence in war zones.

Jolie, who is special envoy of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), was among 1,149 people to receive an award for their contribution to British society in the annual Queen's Birthday Honours list published on Saturday.

The list includes a posthumous MBE for teenage cancer sufferer and fundraiser Stephen Sutton and a knighthood for actor Daniel Day-Lewis.

Jolie, 39, co-founded the Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative with Foreign Secretary William Hague in 2012 and was among the speakers at a major conference on the subject in London this week.

Since she is not a British citizen she cannot be addressed as Dame, but receives the award on an honorary basis.

"To receive an honor related to foreign policy means a great deal to me, as it is what I wish to dedicate my working life to," she said in a statement.

Cancer campaigner Sutton accepted the Member of the Order of the British Empire award before his death last month, the Cabinet Office, which announces the awards, said in a statement.

"It is clear that Stephen touched and inspired a huge number of people and that his ambassadorial work for the Teenage Cancer Trust was greatly appreciated by all those he helped," it added.

Sutton's fundraising campaign went viral on social media and raised 4.2 million pounds ($7 million) before his death in May at the age of 19.

Day-Lewis, 57, the first ever winner of three Best Actor Oscars and the star of "Lincoln" and "There Will Be Blood," was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to drama.

Actress Dame Maggie Smith becomes a Companion of Honor while "Wolf Hall" author Hilary Mantel, golfer Laura Davies and fashion designer Zandra Rhodes become Dames.

For a full explanation of the honors system, click on https://www.gov.uk/honours/types-of-honours-and-awards

(Reporting by Stephen Addison; Editing by Raissa Kasolowsky)

____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

BB PIN: 260158B5

ENTERTAINMENT New musical shines spotlight on forgotten composer Bert Berns

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Hits such as "Brown Eyed Girl," "Twist and Shout" and "Hang on Sloopy" made Bert Berns one of his era's most successful songwriters and producers before he died in 1968, yet few people outside the music industry ever knew about him.

That could change with a new musical, "Piece of My Heart: The Bert Berns Story" which begins previews on June 25 and opens Off-Broadway on July 21.

Rolling Stone magazine described the songwriter's life as "one of the great untold stories of rock and roll."

Denis Jones, the director and choreographer of "Piece of My Heart," believes now is the time to tell it.

"He was not supposed to live past 30," Jones said during sneak preview of the show that includes more than 20 of the songwriter's hits. "Interestingly, the entire body of work that he generated was between his 30th birthday and his passing."

As a teenager Berns suffered from rheumatic fever, which damaged his heart. He died from a heart attack at the age of 38.

From the rhythm and blues song "Under the Boardwalk" for The Drifters and "Tell Him," the hit for The Exciters to "Cherry Cherry," which sent Neil Diamond to the top of the charts, Berns produced dozens of hits that were recorded by the Beatles, Rolling Stones, David Bowie and other artists.

But he was never honored for or credited with so much of his prolific output.

"He had some connections, some people around him who were tricky. And based on their business practices, after he passed certain people decided to wipe him out of the history books," Jones said.

"All of that will be explained in the play," he added.

"Piece of My Heart" is the latest of the jukebox musicals that have drawn huge theater audiences. "Jersey Boys," the Tony-winning show about singer Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, has been playing on Broadway for more than eight years. The film adaptation, directed by Academy Award winner Clint Eastwood, will open in U.S. theaters next week.

Jessie Mueller won a Tony on Sunday night for her starring role in the musical "Beautiful: The Carole King Story" and the hit show "After Midnight" features original arrangements from the 1920s and 30s by jazz great Duke Ellington.

"Music becomes part of your life. Through popular culture you connect to it so deeply. I know we all do that with this music. We remember where we were," said Jones.

Zak Resnick (Mamma Mia!") plays Berns and Leslie Kritzer ("Legally Blonde") is his daughter in the show that shifts between the past and present.

Like most people Resnick knew the music but not the man.

"He is such an intense, complicated person. He went through so much to find his voice, his sound and his style," Resnick said about Berns. "There were some dark times and he left this world far too soon."

(Reporting by Patricia Reaney; Editing by Piya Sinha-Roy and David Gregorio)

____________________________________



From BEN Latest News: www.benlatestnews.com



Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/benlatestnews

BB PIN: 260158B5